Expert Tips: How To Get Ride Of Skunks Safely & Humanely

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Expert Tips: How To Get Ride Of Skunks Safely & Humanely

Knowing how to safely and humanely get rid of skunks is important if they are making your home or yard their home, especially if they are living under structures like sheds or decks. Skunks often seek shelter in such places and can cause issues with their digging, potential damage, and, of course, their strong spray. Making them leave your property without harming them or yourself is the main goal.

Why Skunks Come Around

Skunks look for two main things: food and shelter. Your yard might offer both.

What Skunks Eat

Skunks eat many things. They are not picky eaters.
* Insects (like grubs, beetles, crickets)
* Worms
* Small rodents (like mice)
* Eggs
* Berries and fallen fruit
* Garbage
* Pet food left outside

If you have easy food sources, skunks will be drawn to your yard.

Where Skunks Hide

Skunks need safe places to sleep and raise their young.
* Under sheds
* Under decks or porches
* In woodpiles
* In abandoned burrows made by other animals
* In hollow logs
* Sometimes in garages or basements if they can get in

These dark, quiet spots offer good protection. They are especially popular nesting sites in spring. Knowing where skunks like to hide helps with skunk proofing your yard.

Learning About Skunks

Skunks are not usually aggressive. They prefer to avoid trouble. They use their spray only when they feel threatened. This spray is their last defense. Before spraying, they often give warnings.
* They stamp their front feet.
* They hiss.
* They raise their tail.

If you see these signs, move away slowly and quietly. Do not make sudden moves. Most activity happens at night. Skunks are nocturnal. You are most likely to see or hear them from dusk till dawn. Dealing with skunks safely means respecting their space and their nighttime habits.

Simple Ways to Stop Skunks Coming Close

The easiest way to handle skunks is to stop them from wanting to be near your home at all. This is part of skunk damage prevention.

Removing Food Sources

Make your yard less like a buffet for skunks.
* Secure your trash cans. Use cans with tight lids. You can add bungee cords. Bring trash cans inside a garage at night if you can.
* Do not leave pet food outside. Feed pets indoors. Pick up any uneaten food right away.
* Clean up fallen fruit. If you have fruit trees, pick up fruit from the ground daily.
* Protect your garden. Use fencing or netting to keep skunks from eating vegetables or fruits.
* Limit insect appeal. Treat your lawn for grubs if they are a big problem, but choose methods safe for other wildlife and pets.

Making Shelter Spots Less Appealing

Skunks want safe, quiet, dark places. Change this.
* Install lights. Bright lights under decks or sheds can make skunks feel unsafe. Use motion-sensor lights. These turn on when the skunk comes near. This can scare them away over time.
* Make noise. A radio played softly near the den entrance can bother skunks. Keep it on for a day or two. This might make them look for a quieter spot.
* Add smells they dislike. Some smells might make a den seem less nice.

Getting Skunks Out From Under Shed

This is a common problem. Skunks love these spots. Getting them to leave needs patience. You want them to move out on their own. You do not want to trap them inside.

Step 1: Figure Out Where They Get In

Watch the area at dusk or dawn. See where the skunk goes in or out. There might be one main entry point. Look for disturbed dirt or tracks.

Step 2: Make the Area Uncomfortable

While the skunk is not there (usually during the day), make changes.
* Put bright lights there. A work light shining into the space works well. Keep it on all day and night for a few days.
* Put a radio there. Play talk radio loudly. This makes the space noisy.
* Add strong smells. Place rags soaked in apple cider vinegar or ammonia near the entrance. Skunks do not like these smells. Mothballs are sometimes used, but their safety around pets and other wildlife is debated. A homemade skunk repellent using strong scents can help.

Step 3: Check If They Are Gone

Before you close the entry point, you need to know the skunk is out.
* The flour test: Smooth a layer of flour or sand right outside the entry hole. Check it the next morning. If you see tracks going out but none coming back in for two nights, the spot is likely empty.
* Look for signs: If the lights, noise, and smells have been there for a few days, the skunk likely left to find a better spot.
* Be sure no babies are present. Skunks usually have babies in spring (April-June). If it is this time of year, assume there are babies. You must wait until babies are old enough to travel with their mother (usually by July or August). Blocking the hole with babies inside is not humane. It can cause the mother to cause more damage trying to get back in, or the babies will die inside, causing a smell.

Step 4: Seal the Entry Point

Once you are sure the skunk (and any babies) are gone, block the hole.
* Use strong wire mesh (like hardware cloth).
* Extend the mesh at least 6 inches down into the ground. Skunks are good diggers.
* Attach the mesh firmly to the shed structure.
* Check other potential entry spots around the shed too. Seal them all.

This complete process is a key part of skunk removal tips for under structures.

Using Skunk Repellents

Many products claim to repel skunks. Some work better than others. There are also things you can make at home. Using repellents is one way how to deter skunks.

Commercial Skunk Repellents

You can buy repellents. They often use smells or tastes skunks dislike.
* Granular repellents: You sprinkle these around areas you want to protect. They often contain smells from predator urine or strong plant oils.
* Liquid sprays: These can be sprayed on surfaces or plants.
* Electronic repellents: Some use motion-activated sprinklers or high-frequency sound. Sprinklers are often more effective than sound devices.

When using commercial products, always follow the label directions. The label tells you where and how to use it safely. Some products might not be safe for pets or children if not used right. Look for products specifically labeled for skunks or general wildlife repellents.

Homemade Skunk Repellent Options

You can try making your own repellents using common things.
* Citrus smells: Skunks dislike citrus. Put citrus peels (oranges, lemons) around the yard. Replace them often.
* Ammonia: The smell of ammonia can make skunks think a predator is near. Soak rags in ammonia and place them in open containers near den sites (like under the shed entrance). Do not pour ammonia directly on the ground, especially where pets or plants could be harmed. This is best used temporarily to make a den less inviting.
* Vinegar: Similar to ammonia, apple cider vinegar has a strong smell skunks avoid. Use soaked rags.
* Spicy smells: Skunks might avoid very spicy smells. Mix cayenne pepper flakes with water and spray it around areas you want to protect. Be careful not to get this in your eyes or on skin. Reapply after rain. This can be a form of skunk damage prevention for gardens.

Which Repellents Work Best?

The effectiveness of repellents varies. What works for one skunk might not work for another.
* Smell-based repellents: These need to be reapplied often, especially after rain or watering. They create a barrier of unpleasant scent.
* Taste-based repellents: These work on plants or surfaces the skunk might try to eat or dig at. The bad taste discourages them.
* Motion-activated sprinklers: These are often seen as one of the best skunk repellent types for keeping skunks out of areas like yards or gardens. The sudden spray of water is startling and harmless.

Using a mix of methods often works better than just one.

Using a Live Skunk Trap

Trapping a skunk is very difficult and risky. It is generally not recommended for homeowners. The biggest risk is getting sprayed.

Why Trapping is Hard

• Skunks are sensitive: A skunk in a trap is very scared. It is very likely to spray when approached.
• Moving a trapped skunk: Getting the skunk from the trap to somewhere else is challenging without getting sprayed.
• Relocation rules: In many places, moving trapped wild animals is against the law. Relocating animals can also harm the animal or spread disease.
• Other animals: You might catch animals other than a skunk.

If You Must Use a Trap (Expert Situations Only)

If you have to use a live skunk trap (perhaps under guidance from wildlife experts or if professionals are unavailable and it’s legal), here are key points:
* Use a covered trap: Get a trap designed for skunks. It should be solid-sided so the skunk cannot see out easily. This can reduce stress and the chance of spraying.
* Bait the trap: Use bait skunks like, such as peanut butter, sardines, or apples.
* Place the trap correctly: Put the trap near the skunk’s entry point or where you see it most often.
* Check the trap often: Check it early in the morning. Do not leave an animal trapped all day in sun or bad weather.
* Approaching the trap: Cover the trap with a blanket or tarp before you get too close. Approach slowly and calmly.
* Moving the trap: If you must move it (and it’s legal), keep the trap covered. Carry it carefully, keeping it level. Do not bump it.

Using a live skunk trap should be a last resort. It requires careful handling and knowledge of local laws. For most people, professional help is needed for trapping.

When to Call Wildlife Control

Sometimes, you need help from experts. Wildlife control for skunks is the best option in many cases.

Signs You Need a Professional

• Skunks are aggressive: While rare, an animal acting strangely might be sick.
• There are many skunks: A large group is harder to manage yourself.
• Skunks are in a difficult spot: Inside walls, attics, or places hard to reach safely.
• You know there are babies: Professionals know how to handle mothers and babies humanely, often waiting until they can move together.
• You are not comfortable: Dealing with wild animals can be scary. It is okay to ask for help.
• Legal rules: Some areas require professionals for trapping or removal.

A wildlife control expert knows skunk behavior. They have the right tools. They know how to handle them safely and follow local laws. They can also help identify all entry points and make a long-term skunk proofing your yard plan.

Dealing with Skunk Spray

Getting sprayed by a skunk is unpleasant. The smell is very strong and hard to get rid of. Knowing skunk odor removal methods is important.

Why Skunk Spray Smells So Bad

Skunk spray contains chemicals called thiols (or mercaptans). These are the same chemicals added to natural gas to give it a smell, but much stronger. Thiols bond easily to skin, fur, and other materials, making the smell last a long time.

Getting Skunk Spray Off Pets

This is the most common spray problem. Act fast.
1. Check your pet: Look for spray, often on their face or front. Check their eyes. Rinse eyes with lots of plain water or pet-safe eyewash if you think spray got in them.
2. Do not bring them inside: Keep the pet outside or in a garage. You do not want the smell inside your house.
3. Use a de-skunking solution: Plain tomato juice does not work well. It might cover the smell for a bit, but it does not remove the chemicals. A common and effective homemade solution is:
* 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide
* 1/4 cup baking soda
* 1 teaspoon liquid dish soap
* Mix this fresh for each use. Do not store it. It can explode in a closed container.
4. Wash your pet: Wear rubber gloves. Wash your pet with this mixture. Work it deep into the fur. Avoid getting it in their eyes or mouth. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
5. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse your pet with water.
6. Shampoo: Wash your pet again with regular pet shampoo.
7. Repeat if needed: The smell might not be totally gone after one wash. You might need to wash them a few times.
8. Dry your pet: Towel dry your pet.

There are also commercial de-skunking shampoos available at pet stores. These are also effective skunk odor removal products for pets.

Getting Skunk Spray Off People

If you get sprayed:
1. Wash skin: Use the same hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap mixture. Wash the affected skin right away.
2. Wash clothes: Wash clothes separately from other laundry. Use heavy-duty detergent and add 1/2 cup of baking soda or a cup of vinegar to the wash. Air dry the clothes. The heat of a dryer can set the smell in.

Getting Skunk Spray Off Property (Houses, Decks, etc.)

This is harder. The smell can soak into wood, fabric, and even paint.
* Wash surfaces: For hard surfaces (decks, walls), use a solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water if the material is safe for bleach. Test in a small spot first. You can also try a mix of baking soda and water paste, let it sit, then scrub and rinse. The pet de-skunking mixture can sometimes work on outdoor surfaces too.
* Ventilate: Open windows and use fans to air out indoor areas.
* Absorb smells: Place bowls of white vinegar or activated charcoal around rooms to absorb airborne odors.
* Wash fabrics: Wash curtains, carpets, and furniture covers using baking soda or vinegar in the wash if possible. For carpets and furniture, use a carpet cleaner with an enzymatic cleaner designed for pet odors (some work on skunk smell).
* Replace items: Sometimes, soft items like cushions, clothing, or even parts of decks that got a direct hit might need to be thrown away.

Skunk odor removal can take time and effort. Be prepared for the smell to linger, especially on humid days.

Skunk Proofing Your Yard

Once skunks are gone, or to stop them from coming, focus on making your yard unwelcoming. This is the best skunk damage prevention.

Secure Potential Entry Points

• Under sheds, decks, porches: As mentioned before, use strong wire mesh (hardware cloth) buried at least 6 inches deep and attached firmly to the structure. Check all sides.
• Around foundations: Seal cracks and openings in your home’s foundation.
• Basement windows/vents: Make sure covers are secure.

Fence Your Yard

A sturdy fence can help.
* Height: A standard fence might deter some, but skunks can climb a bit or dig.
* Bury the fence: For better skunk proofing your yard, bury the bottom of the fence 6-12 inches deep. Or, create an L-shaped barrier by bending the bottom 12 inches of the fence mesh outward at a 90-degree angle and burying it flat on the ground surface pointing away from the yard. Skunks digging down will hit the mesh.

Manage Your Landscaping

• Trim bushes and shrubs: Skunks like dense cover. Keep areas around structures trimmed back.
• Clean up woodpiles: Store firewood neatly on a raised rack.
• Remove brush piles: These offer good hiding places.
• Fill old burrows: If you see old animal burrows, fill them in with dirt or rocks.

Be Mindful of Water

Skunks need water.
* Fix leaky outdoor faucets.
* Do not leave pet water bowls out all night.
* If you have a pond, make the edges steep so skunks cannot easily get in and out.

Summarizing Skunk Removal Tips

Getting rid of skunks safely and humanely involves several steps. It’s about making your property less attractive and, if needed, gently encouraging them to leave.

• Remove food: Secure trash, pet food, fallen fruit.
• Remove shelter: Seal access under structures, tidy up yard clutter.
• Use deterrents: Try lights, noise, or smells like citrus, vinegar, or commercial repellents. Motion-activated sprinklers are often effective.
• For under structures: Use the light, noise, and smell method. Get skunks out from under shed safely by confirming they are gone before sealing. Wait for babies to be old enough.
• Avoid trapping: Live skunk trap use is risky and often requires a professional or is illegal.
• Call experts: Use wildlife control for skunks if the problem is big, complex, or you feel unsafe.
• Clean up spray: Use special formulas for skunk odor removal on pets, people, and property.
• Prevent return: Skunk proofing your yard by securing entry points and managing landscaping is key for long-term skunk damage prevention.

Humane methods focus on changing the environment so the skunk chooses to leave on its own. This is safer for everyone.

Table: Skunk Removal Methods Quick Look

Method	Description	Pros	Cons	Humaneness
Remove Food/Shelter	Tidy yard, secure trash, seal gaps.	Prevents problem before it starts.	Requires ongoing effort. May not work if skunks are already denning.	High
Lights/Noise	Use bright lights or radios near den sites.	Simple, non-harmful.	May only work for a short time. Need power source.	High
Scent Repellents	Use smells like citrus, vinegar, ammonia, or commercial products.	Easy to apply. Many options (homemade/store-bought).	Needs frequent reapplication. Effectiveness varies.	High
Motion Sprinklers	Sprays water when motion detected.	Effective for deterring entry to areas.	Needs water source. Only protects specific zones.	High
Sealing Entry Points	Blocking holes under structures with mesh.	Permanent solution for denning sites.	MUST be sure animals are gone first. Requires work.	High (if done correctly)
Live Trapping	Catching the skunk in a cage.	Can remove the specific animal.	High risk of spray. Stressful for animal. Often illegal to relocate. Hard to handle.	Low (due to stress/spray risk/relocation issues)
Professional Wildlife Control	Hiring experts to assess and remove skunks.	Safe, effective, follows laws. Handles complex cases.	Costs money.	High (Good professionals use humane methods)

Frequently Asked Questions About Skunks

Q: Can I just block the hole where the skunk goes under my shed?

A: No, do not do this without being sure the skunk is gone. If you block the hole while the skunk is inside, it will be trapped. It might cause damage trying to get out. If there are babies inside, they will die, causing a bad smell. Use lights, noise, and smells first to encourage them to leave. Then, use the flour test to check if they are gone before sealing.

Q: Will mothballs repel skunks?

A: Mothballs are often said to repel skunks and other animals because of their strong smell. However, their effectiveness is not proven. Also, mothballs contain chemicals that can be harmful to pets, children, and other wildlife. Many experts do not recommend using them outdoors.

Q: What time of year are skunks most active?

A: Skunks are nocturnal, meaning they are active at night. You are most likely to see them from dusk till dawn. They do not truly hibernate, but they are less active in cold winter months. They are most active in spring and summer when they are looking for food and raising young.

Q: Is skunk spray dangerous?

A: Skunk spray is not usually dangerous, but it is very unpleasant. It can cause temporary burning or stinging if it gets in the eyes. It can also cause nausea from the strong smell. The biggest risk is stress to pets if they get sprayed. The smell is the main issue.

Q: How long does skunk spray smell last?

A: If not treated, skunk spray smell can last for weeks, even months, especially on fabric or porous surfaces. Using the right skunk odor removal methods right away can greatly reduce how long the smell lasts.

Q: Do skunks carry rabies?

A: Yes, skunks can carry rabies. They are one of the main wild animals that can get and spread rabies. This is another reason to keep a safe distance from skunks and never try to handle them directly. If a skunk seems unusually bold, aggressive, or sick (stumbling, acting confused), call wildlife control for skunks or animal control right away.

Q: Will bright lights really keep skunks away?

A: Yes, continuous bright light or motion-activated lights can deter skunks from using a space as a den. Skunks prefer dark, quiet areas. Making an area bright and active makes it less appealing to them as a safe hiding spot. This is a simple but effective how to deter skunks method.

Q: Are there plants that repel skunks?

A: Some sources suggest certain plants like rue or specific types of peppers might deter skunks due to their strong scent or taste. However, planting these is generally not a very reliable method for skunk proofing your yard compared to physical barriers and removing attractants.

Safely managing skunks on your property is possible. By understanding what attracts them and using humane methods to deter or remove them, you can solve the problem and prevent future visits. Remember, patience and careful steps are key.